Gabriella, an advisory board member for the SXSW (South by Southwest) Pitch competition, revealed this year's event dynamics and the latest trends in the global startup ecosystem in an interview with our publication.

"This year's SXSW had an electrifying atmosphere unlike any before," Gabriella began. "This gathering of founders, investors, and industry leaders always creates a tense yet inspiring environment. In 2025 particularly, there was a heightened sense of urgency around solving climate issues, redefining human-AI collaboration, and expanding access to cutting-edge technologies."

Major Trends Shaping This Year's SXSW Pitch Competition

Eco-Everything

Sustainability has transitioned from a "nice-to-have" element to a core value for many startups. "We saw numerous companies developing green hydrogen from waste, ultra-efficient batteries, and regenerative materials for fashion and construction," Gabriella explained. "Startups focused on water conservation were also notable, with one team showcasing planters that reduce water usage by 90% while enhancing plant growth. It's evident that impact-centered businesses are capturing significant attention from both customers and investors."

The Evolution of Robotics and AI

"Robots are no longer experimental but becoming essential," Gabriella noted, mentioning the trend of AI-powered robots being deployed in high-risk areas such as disaster response, airport logistics, and construction sites. "One startup presented a robotic arm that learns in real-time from human workers, which was impressive for being adaptive technology rather than simply programmed. The real challenge we face now is ensuring these technologies are ethically developed to augment human work rather than replace it."

Next-Generation XR and No-Code Tools

"The ability to create 3D designs, build VR experiences, and develop AI applications without coding skills is giving rise to a new generation of creators," Gabriella said this was among the most fascinating developments. "However, I always tell people that having tools doesn't mean skipping the learning process. Mastery still matters. Nevertheless, I was impressed by VR training platforms allowing educators to build immersive courses in hours rather than months, and no-code voice AI that could revolutionize accessibility."

The Importance of Real-Time Updates

"This is where AI meets practicality," Gabriella cited examples including wildfire detection systems that respond within seconds, instant translation between over 100 languages, and real-time electric vehicle charging availability. "Startups are eliminating inefficiencies in ways unimaginable just a few years ago. There's a clear demand for immediate, data-driven insights that make life more convenient."

Diverse, Mission-Driven Teams

"Some of the best ideas emerged at the intersection of industries and cultures," Gabriella reported witnessing women-led startups, collaborations between former NASA engineers and artists, and intercontinental partnerships. "When different perspectives blend, more inclusive, resilient, and practical solutions emerge. It's no wonder investors are paying attention to diverse leadership—it leads to better products and greater impact."

How SXSW Selects Its Advisory Board

When asked about SXSW's process for selecting advisory board members for the pitch competition, Gabriella described it as "a deliberate and strategic process."

"SXSW aims to assemble a diverse, experienced panel that reflects the various industries and emerging trends covered at the event. The selection process includes:

1. Industry Expertise and Domain Knowledge – Including experts from venture capital, angel investors, successful founders, corporate innovation leaders, and tech executives. This ensures balanced perspectives across industries including AI, sustainability, and XR.

2. Diversity and Inclusion – Focusing on gathering experts with diverse backgrounds, genders, and geographic diversity to foster varied perspectives. This helps avoid biased viewpoints and introduces fresh perspectives.

3. Cross-Industry Representation – Incorporating not just technology investors but also experts from arts, healthcare, mobility, entertainment, and more. This ensures solutions are evaluated not only for technical feasibility but also for social impact and practical adoption potential.

4. Previous Judging and Mentoring Experience – Many board members have experience with startup competitions, incubators, or accelerators, enabling them to provide valuable feedback to founders.

5. Commitment to the Startup Ecosystem – Advisory members are often selected based on their active participation in the global startup community, including mentoring, investing, or running founder support programs.

6. SXSW Community Engagement – Many advisors are long-time SXSW attendees or speakers who deeply understand the festival's spirit. Their experience with the event helps ensure continuity of vision and standards."

When asked for advice for those interested in joining the advisory board, Gabriella suggested, "Engage with the startup community, mentor founders, and participate in SXSW events. It's important to actively contribute to the ecosystem through investments, incubators, and thought leadership, as well as networking with past advisors. SXSW is always looking for people who bring both experience and fresh ideas."

Finally, when asked to summarize this year's SXSW Pitch competition in one sentence, Gabriella emphasized, "The future is being built not by those waiting for change, but by bold, mission-driven founders who are creating it directly, right now."